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Solvents REACH

Propylene glycol

CAS Number
57-55-6
EC Number
200-338-0
Chemical Formula
C3H8O2
Molecular Weight
76.09 g/mol

Description

Propylene glycol (CAS 57-55-6 ), commonly abbreviated as PG and approved as E1520 in food applications, is a synthetic diol used across food, pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial sectors. It functions primarily as a humectant, solvent, and carrier, retaining moisture in formulations and solubilizing active ingredients that are otherwise difficult to deliver effectively in various mediums. In food and beverage manufacturing, PG carries flavors, colors, and preservatives in products where water or oil-based solvents are unsuitable for the specific formulation requirements of the manufacturer. Pharmaceutical formulators rely on it as a solvent and co-solvent in oral liquids, topical creams, and injectable preparations where consistent solubility and stability are required for the final product. Personal care producers use it to control moisture retention in lotions, serums, and hair care products while also improving texture and ingredient compatibility across a wide range of cosmetic applications. In unsaturated polyester resin production, PG acts as a reactive diol in the polymer backbone, contributing to cross-linking and final resin performance for industrial and construction materials. Propylene glycol is supplied as a clear, low-viscosity liquid in bulk, IBC, and drum formats. Recognized grades include USP / EP for pharmaceutical and food use, and FCC for food-grade applications. Technical grade is available for industrial and polymer processing. USP and FCC grades are the most commonly specified by procurement teams sourcing for highly regulated global end markets. Contact us for supply of Propylene glycol Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

HOCH2CH(OH)CH3 | DL-propylene glycol | DL-1,2-propanediol | CH3CH(OH)CH2OH | alpha-propyleneglycol | 2,3-propanediol | 2-hydroxypropanol | 1,2-propylene glycol | PG | E1520

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point-59 °C
Boiling Point188.2 °C
Density1.036 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point225 °F
AppearancePropylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, syrupy liquid.
ColorAPHA: ≤10
Odorat 100.00 %. odorless very slight alcoholic
FormViscous Liquid
Water Solubilitymiscible
Vapor Pressure0.08 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.432(lit.)
pH6-8 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P-0.92

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS07· IrritantGHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H336May cause drowsiness or dizziness
H370Causes damage to organs
H372Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure

Precautionary Statements

P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29053200
Storage Class10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)1